There is currently a Travel Advisory in effect for this region and it's surrounding boarders as well as islands just off the coast of the Mindanao mainland. For time-being we would recommend sticking to the safer regions of North/Central Mindanao or inland Davao, seek a guide, and always avoid traveling at night.

SOCCSKSARGEN

(South/Central Mindanao)

Provinces: North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat.

Cities: General Santos City, Kidapawan, Koronadal, Tacurong, etc.

White sand beaches and white water rafting adventures! SOCCSKSARGEN (region 12), is an acronym meaning South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City. SOCCSKSARGEN is very popular region in southern Mindanao with many hot tourist spots. With it's seasonal festivals, fresh water lakes such as Lake Holon, and many popular beaches such as Gumasa Beach, there will be enough to keep anyone busy no matter what time of the year.

Brief History:

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Although their are many great cities and villages in this region, not all are appealing to tourists. The recommended tourist destinations include: South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, General Santos City, Tacurong City, Koronadal City, Kidapawan City, and Tacurong City. The top 3 destinations by popularity are pictured below.

Questions? Comments? Click on the map above to jump to the SOCCSKSARGEN forum!

Top 3 Most Popular Tourist Destinations In The Region:

General Santos

Koronadal City

Sarangani

A Day In General Santos

We breakdown an sample itinerary to start your day in the SOCCSKSARGEN's most popular city. We have picked out the most popular local Hotel, Restaurant, and Destination. Click the pictures for more information, navigation, and for ratings.

Relax

with a little bit of luxury at the Greenleaf Hotel Gensan on the corner of San Miguel St. & J. Catolico St. in General Santos City. Enjoy their large rooms that are always clean and cozy, free WiFi, and a pool. The Greenleaf Hotel is in an ideal location that will land you near many of your favorite eateries, such as Starbucks. 4 star amenities here for half the price folks, certainly the best hotel in the area!

Begin

your relaxing vacation amidst the clouds at the Sarangani Highlands Garden and Restaurant on Purok Wal, Tambler in General Santos City. Witness some of the best views in the area, while at the same time enjoying great local food that is as fresh as the gardens themselves. Highly recommended that you cool off here to the gentle evening sea breeze with a loved one, great place for a date.

Explore

the private white sand beaches of the Sarangani Islands! Although not technically part of General Santos City, no trip to the area would be complete without a visit to beaches of this nearby province. The island beaches here are not as crowded as Gumasa Beach in Glan (that is commonly refereed to as the "Boracay of the South"). You will also find the island to be more peaceful as well as more accessible then anything you will find inland. Note: Although the shores here are paroled by police, you may choose Gumasa Beach inland, or tubing on the Pangi River in New La Union, Maitum as an alternative if you are a foreigner.

Comment

Did you try the sample itinerary and enjoy your trip? Where else did you go while you were there? Do you have any tips for members visiting SOCCSKSARGEN? Let us know by signing the guest book!